SITM Advanced Course (ST5–7)

Launching in Early 2027

The BSACP SITM Advanced Course is an in-person training programme designed for doctors undertaking, or preparing to undertake, the Special Interest Training Module (SITM) in Safe Practice in Abortion Care of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists.

Developed in partnership with NHS England and endorsed by NHS England and the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG), this course supports clinicians in developing the advanced knowledge, procedural skills and clinical confidence required for providing abortion care across gestations.

About the Course

This course supports clinicians in progressing towards independent practice in abortion care. It focuses on the clinical, procedural and service-level aspects of care required for those undertaking the SITM, including hands-on training in uterine evacuation techniques and the management of more complex cases. The programme includes teaching on:

  • Service development, including increasing surgical gestations and setting up services
  • Pain management in medical and surgical abortion
  • Manual Vacuum Aspiration (MVA) and Dilation and Evacuation (D&E) techniques
  • Simulation-based procedural training in MVA and D&E
  • Management of complex cases and complications
  • Patient experience and perspectives
  • Transition to independent practice following completion of the SITM

Learning Approach

This is an in-person course combining:

  • Lectures to explore advanced clinical and service-level topics
  • Simulation-based training in MVA and D&E techniques
  • Case-based discussion to support clinical reasoning and decision-making
  • Small group learning to allow hands-on practice and personalised feedback

The course provides a supportive environment for developing both technical skills and professional confidence in abortion care.

Who is this course for?

This course is designed for:

  • Doctors undertaking the SITM in Safe Practice in Abortion Care
  • Resident Doctors in Obstetrics and Gynaecology (typically ST5–7)
  • Doctors preparing to apply for or considering the SITM

The SITM is open to all doctors with an interest in abortion care, and this course is suitable for those looking to develop the skills required for this training pathway.

How this course fits into training

This course forms part of BSACP’s structured education pathway. It supports clinicians progressing to advanced training and prepares learners for independent practice in abortion care.

Why attend this course

  • Develop advanced skills in abortion care aligned with the SITM
  • Gain hands-on experience in MVA and D&E through simulation
  • Build confidence in managing complex cases and complications
  • Understand service development and delivery at higher gestations
  • Learn from experienced clinicians providing abortion care
  • Prepare for independent clinical practice

Course Format

  • Format: In-person
  • Teaching methods: Lectures, simulation and small group teaching
  • Duration: 1 day

Partnership and endorsement

This course has been developed in partnership with NHS England and is endorsed by NHS England.

Upcoming Courses

Check our events page for more information on upcoming courses.